Friday, September 12, 2025
Introduction: Why Proper Preparation Matters More Than You Think
You’ve chosen your perfect flooring, found a great installer, and scheduled the installation date. But have you thought about what needs to happen before the installers arrive? Proper preparation might not be the most exciting part of your flooring project, but it’s arguably the most important. Good preparation can mean the difference between a smooth, efficient installation and a stressful, delayed nightmare.
This comprehensive guide will walk you through every step of preparing your home for flooring installation. Whether you’re getting luxurious hardwood, durable laminate, or elegant tile, these preparation steps will ensure your installation goes smoothly and your new floors look perfect for years to come.
Timeline: When to Start Your Preparation
One Week Before Installation
- Confirm installation date and time with your contractor
- Arrange time off work if needed to be home during installation
- Make plans for children and pets during installation days
- Start moving non-essential items from the installation area
2-3 Days Before Installation
- Remove all furniture from the rooms being floored
- Take down wall art, curtains, and window treatments
- Empty closets and storage areas in the installation space
- Create clear pathways from entry doors to the work area
The Day Before Installation
- Do a final sweep of the installation area
- Ensure installers have clear access and parking
- Protect adjacent rooms with plastic sheeting
- Set aside a bathroom that workers can use
Room-by-Room Preparation Guide
Living Areas and Bedrooms
Furniture Removal:
- Remove all furniture from the room
- Place furniture in another room or garage temporarily
- Use furniture sliders to protect your floors and your back
- Consider professional movers for heavy items like pianos or safes
Wall and Window Items:
- Take down all wall art, mirrors, and decorations
- Remove curtains, blinds, and window treatments
- Take down curtain rods and hardware if they might be in the way
Electronics and Valuables:
- Unplug and remove televisions and entertainment systems
- Pack away valuable items and fragile decorations
- Remove area rugs and floor protectors
Kitchen Preparation
Appliances:
- Arrange for professional disconnection of major appliances
- Clear countertops completely
- Remove items from lower cabinets if flooring is being installed underneath
- Empty the dishwasher and turn off its water supply
Cabinets and Storage:
- Remove everything from pantry and lower cabinets
- Take down hanging pot racks or utensil holders
- Clear off refrigerator tops and sides
Bathroom Preparation
Fixtures:
- Remove toiletries from countertops and showers
- Take down shower curtains and rods
- Empty vanity cabinets and drawers
- Remove toilet tank lids and secure bathroom rugs
Plumbing Considerations:
- Know that toilets may need to be removed for flooring installation
- Plan for temporary bathroom alternatives if all bathrooms are being floored
Closets and Storage Areas
- Completely empty all closets in the installation area
- Remove closet organization systems
- Take clothing and items to another location
- Remove shoe racks and storage containers
Structural Preparation Checklist
Subfloor Preparation
Inspection:
- Ensure subfloor is clean, dry, and level
- Remove any old adhesive, nails, or staples
- Check for squeaks and repair them before installation
- Address any moisture issues or uneven areas
Repairs:
- Fix any damaged subfloor areas
- Ensure proper subfloor type for your new flooring
- Level any uneven areas according to installer recommendations
Doors and Trim
Baseboards:
- Decide whether to remove baseboards or use quarter-round
- Label pieces if removed for easy reinstallation
- Remove shoe molding and quarter-round
Doors:
- Remove doors from hinges if flooring height will change
- Plan for undercutting door frames for proper clearance
- Mark doors that might need trimming after installation
HVAC and Ventilation
- Cover vents to prevent dust from entering ductwork
- Consider turning off HVAC system during installation
- Plan for ventilation if using adhesives or stains
- Protect return air vents from dust and debris
Family and Pet Preparation
Children
- Explain the process to children in advance
- Arrange alternative sleeping arrangements if needed
- Set up a temporary play area away from the work zone
- Plan meals in advance since kitchen may be unavailable
Pets
- Arrange for pets to stay elsewhere during installation
- Create a safe, quiet space if pets must remain home
- Ensure pets cannot access installation area
- Update pet arrangements if installation takes longer than expected
Daily Life Considerations
- Plan for limited access to rooms during installation
- Set up temporary cooking arrangements if kitchen is involved
- Prepare for noise and disruption during work hours
- Have cleaning supplies ready for post-installation cleanup
Communication with Your Installer
Pre-Installation Questions
Access and Logistics:
- Where should the crew park?
- Which entrance should they use?
- Is there electricity available for their tools?
- Where can they store materials overnight if needed?
Project Details:
- What time will work begin and end each day?
- How many crew members should you expect?
- Who is the point of contact during installation?
- What preparation are they responsible for versus what you need to do?
Day-of-Installation Checklist
Morning of Installation:
- Do a final walkthrough to ensure everything is ready
- Ensure clear access to the work area
- Point out any special considerations or concerns
- Provide contact information for questions
During Installation:
- Stay available but out of the way
- Keep children and pets away from the work area
- Avoid walking on new flooring until it’s ready
- Address questions or concerns as they arise
Post-Installation Preparation
Immediate Aftercare
Initial Cleaning:
- Understand when the floor can be walked on
- Learn proper cleaning methods for your specific flooring
- Avoid placing furniture immediately if possible
- Follow any specific curing time requirements
Furniture Replacement:
- Use felt pads on all furniture legs
- Lift furniture rather than dragging it into place
- Wait recommended time before replacing area rugs
- Be careful with rolling chairs and furniture
Final Walkthrough
What to Check:
- Inspect the entire installation for consistency
- Check transitions between rooms and different flooring types
- Ensure doors open and close properly
- Verify that all trim and molding is properly installed
Documentation:
- Review warranty information and care instructions
- Keep extra flooring for future repairs
- Save all installation documentation
- Note any touch-up paint colors used on trim
Common Preparation Mistakes to Avoid
Underestimating Time Requirements
- Starting preparation too late
- Not allowing enough time for furniture moving
- Forgetting to arrange for child or pet care
- Not planning for enough cleanup time
Inadequate Protection
- Failing to protect adjacent areas from dust
- Not covering furniture in other rooms
- Forgetting to protect walls during furniture moving
- Neglecting to cover air vents
Communication Failures
- Not discussing preparation expectations with installer
- Failing to ask about what the crew will handle
- Not clarifying who handles furniture moving
- Forgetting to discuss cleanup responsibilities
Why Professional Guidance Matters
While this checklist covers the general preparation steps, every home and flooring type has unique considerations. Professional installers can provide specific guidance based on your particular situation, flooring choice, and home layout.
At Reno King, we understand that proper preparation is the foundation of a successful flooring installation. Our team provides detailed preparation guidelines specific to your project and is available to answer questions throughout the process. We believe that good communication and thorough preparation ensure that your flooring installation experience is as smooth and stress-free as possible.
Ready to transform your floors?
📞 Contact us today for a consultation and get detailed preparation guidelines specific to your project .
